By Megan Murray Elsener

One of the highlights of summer in Chicago has to be the amazing
selection of street festivals. But hands-down, one of the best
festivals for families is the
Square Roots Fest in Lincoln Square.

Hosted by the
Old Town School of Folk Music and the Lincoln Square Chamber of
Commerce, the second annual Square Roots Fest takes place July
12-14 on Lincoln Avenue, between Montrose and Wilson. With multiple
music stages, both inside the Old Town School and along Lincoln
Avenue, the fest delivers a vibrant mix of performers alongside
some of the best local foods and regional craft brew beers.

Square Roots Fest offers the widest variety of music of
any festival in the city, says Alisa Baum, concert director at the
Old Town School. "From rock to folk and reggae to dance, there is
something for every music lover."

The global dance parties, open jams, fiddle contests and
all-ages drum circles are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes
to family activities. There even is an entire area devoted to kids
with a hands-on instrument petting zoo and art tent with
crafts.

"It's a really comfortable environment for families, and
kids aren't an afterthought considering that's what we do at the
Old Town School,"says Baum. "There is tons of stuff
for kids and the whole fest is geared towards fun, music and
art."

There are special Wiggleworms performances for crowds of
all ages.

"We always put together a full band of our own talented
teacher-performers to make a high-quality show for
families,"says Erin Flynn, the
children's music program manager at Old Town School. "We have
interesting instruments, amazing harmonies, and just so much fun.
Last year, we had everything from a sitar to a
washboard."

"Performing and participating in Square Roots is essential
summertime,"says Flynn. "The sun is shining upon
Chicago and folks of all ages come together to create and enjoy
music and community. You leave feeling like you were part of
something really special."

If you go

Square Roots Fest

Lincoln Avenue, between Montrose and Wilson, Chicago

Tickets are donation only, with a suggested donation of $10, $5
kids and $20 families